Once we have received applications, the Assessment Phase explores the Applicant’s goals; expectations of the RBI program; background; skills; experience; and readiness to launch a new business. Applicants receive RBI’s enrollment decision soon after the interview. Applicants who are accepted become RBI Fellows and RBA Members.​ 

RBI Fellows participate in a mandatory orientation prior to starting the program. Fellows will be introduced to RMOA Business Association (RBA) Officers and Board members; RBI staff members; Advisors/Mentors; internship hosts; and others. Fellows introduce themselves and provide a brief overview of their vision and goals for the businesses they plan to start, and their expectations of the RBI program.

​Orientation includes a review of RBI’s policies and procedures; the role and duties of all participants, curriculum and training RBI. 

At the beginning of each cohort, members of the RMOA Business Association (RBA) and other business owners are invited to serve as Mentors. RBI recruits Mentors based upon their business experience, expertise, and willingness to help those seeking to start a new business or improve an existing one.

RBI Mentors provide personalized guidance to RBI Fellows (students) through meetings, phone calls and email. 

RBI will place Fellows at company internships that compliment their area of interest. Internships with these companies provide experiences and lessons that cannot be obtained elsewhere.

Internships lasts 1 month and includes as many hours as the mentor is available for onsite experience. This may include attending meetings and briefings, as well as operational and financial reviews.

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Each RBI Fellow submits a written report that highlights the insights and experiences that the Fellow found most meaningful as an aspiring entrepreneur.